Jewelry making is such a wonderful craft and hobby.  That first foray into making beautiful accessories sometimes develops into a small business.   Then comes the realization making the jewelry is actually the easy part.  The issues about how to sell and where to sell as well as the ins and outs of running a business soon arise.

ABI blog post : Connecting Emotionally with a Customer
It is a common struggle trying to make a craft business succeed.  There are all sorts of self-help articles out there. But remember, no two businesses are alike, so a one-size-fits-all plan is not really the answer.  Nothing beats having your very own one-on-one mentor who has the experience to help you move ahead with your business.

ABI blog post : 10 Tips for Merchandising
The Arts Business Institute runs craft business workshops in the US and Canada.  Their faculty members also offer personalized 1 hour consultancy services for artisans - "who will work with you on developing goals and strategies to meet them, customized to your needs and your lifestyle."  All conveniently delivered via telephone or SKYPE no matter where you are.

One of their mentors is Carolyn Edlund, who is also the Executive Director of the Arts Business Institute. Her background includes 20 years owning a production jewelry studio, and seven years as a sales rep for card and gift lines. She writes business articles for artists, and is the author of the e-course "Marketing for Artists & Craftspeople." Carolyn has worked with hundreds of artists on launching and growing their small businesses. 

One lucky reader will win a hour's consultancy with Carolyn.  It includes an evaluation of what you do and identifies your challenges and your goals.
She  provides an "honest, third-party critique of your existing body of work and ways to make it more marketable.She will also help you brainstorm ideas and strategies. 
The consultation may include discussions on:
  • Structuring your small business for success
  • Marketing your handmade work
  • Sales strategies
  • Booth design and selling at retail
  • Wholesaling your work to galleries and shops
A detailed follow-up email typically follows summarizing the discussion and specific steps you need.

ABI blog post : When to Say No to a Sale

Giveaway
If you'd like to win an hour of craft business consulting worth $95 with Carolyn,  please make a comment below. Make sure you leave contact info if you do not have an online shop or blog.

Subscribers need to click on the post title to come to my actual blog. Scroll down and enter your comment. Pick Name/URL. If you don't have a store or blog, leave the URL blank.

This giveaway is for US and Canada.

Extra entries if you become or are a blog subscriber or follower etc. If you also do shout outs about this giveaway, those will count as additional entries too! Please say so in the comments.

It ends in a week's time at 6 pm EST Monday,  July 15,  2013. I will pick the winner randomly and announce the results as soon as possible after. So be sure to leave a contact email if you don't have an online link or make sure you come back and check! Otherwise I will redraw in a week. Good luck!

Photo Credits : The Buyers Market of American Craft

Before You Go:
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Original Post by THE BEADING GEM
Jewelry Making Tips - Jewelry Business Tips